Charity-run north Shropshire sports centre opens new padel court

Shropshire’s latest padel court has begun welcoming players in north Shropshire.

The Maurice Chandler Sports Centre in Stoke Heath, near Market Drayton, is no ordinary leisure facility. Based inside a former RAF aircraft hangar, the centre has been a cornerstone of local sport since 1974.

Run by a dedicated committee, the centre holds charitable status - which leaders say means the focus is firmly on providing opportunities, not profits.

Regular activities range from badminton and pickleball to roller skating, gymnastics, table tennis, football and hosting rugby and hockey teams when pitches are waterlogged.

Now, the centre has added another sport to its repertoire with the launch of a new padel court.

Described as a cross between tennis and squash, padel has grown in popularity in recent years, with Shropshire's first dedicated padel club at the Lion Quays Resort & Spa near Gobowen opening in 2025.

In the year since, padel courts have been popping up around the county, with new courts planned for several locations in Telford, Shrewsbury and beyond.

“It’s an exciting moment for us because it marks the introduction of a completely new sport to the centre,” said centre manager Leanne Bradley.

“We want people to come along, have a look at the new court, find out what padel is all about and, most importantly, give it a go.

“You don't need to be an expert - it is a very accessible and social sport. Our staff have been giving it a trial, and they’ve never played before and love it. “

Padel sessions are now available to book at the Maurice Chandler Sports Centre through the Playtomic app.